Amber Barnes, the executive director at the LGBT Center, with Dauphin County commissioners Justin Douglas and George Hartwick
Local officials celebrated the start of Pride Month this morning, proclaiming June 1 as LGBT Center Central PA Day in Dauphin County.
Dauphin County Commissioner Justin Douglas said Monday that the center has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive communities for LGBTQ+ individuals through various social, educational and cultural programs.
“As we celebrate Pride Month, I hope we can continue building a Dauphin County where every resident has the opportunity to thrive, where every person is treated with dignity,” Douglas said.
Amber Barnes, executive director of the LGBT Center of Central PA, emphasized the center has been proud to be a part of Harrisburg for two decades, working to create authentic, safe spaces and connections within the community. It also connects community members with emergency and transitional housing, food, mental health support.
“We are so much more than the resources that we provide,” said Barnes.
Last week, the director said, she watched three individuals at the center connect and exchange information, after coming in for different reasons.
“Community centers—like the LGBT Center and GLO—that is what we are here for,” Barnes said, referencing a community resource center for queer and trans people of color that operates inside the LGBT Center. “For authentic, safe spaces, but to create connection among our community.”
This year marked the third annual pride press conference for Dauphin County. Douglas said he hopes the tradition will continue for years to come.
“Every resident should know that their community and their county government sees them, values them, and is committed to treating them fairly,” he said.
Douglas recognized the center on behalf of the county alongside Commissioner George Hartwick.
Hartwick noted that communities that embrace inclusion are more competitive economically, more attractive to employers, and better positioned for long-term success.
Amber Barnes speaks at the press conference.
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